My name is Alina and I've started learning Japanese (on my own ) a few months ago. I'm still at the Hiragana characters but hopefully with a little more effort on my part I will be able to advance at a faster rate.

Hi everyone. I also am very new to the language. I am really just starting to make an effort this week to start learning Japanese. I moved to Okinawa, Japan about two weeks ago. Before my flight even reached Tokyo I knew to really enjoy this new enviorment I was going to need to learn the language. I hope using online material I will be ready to take classes soon. My goals are to be able to communicate, as well as read a menu and order food without looking like a silly American ( which is what I do now at a restaurant )

Karalyn I'm sure if we both put a little more effort into it we can start working and on the Katakana.Micahcowan, arigatou ^_^Lynndsay.pike how is Okinawa? I really want to go to Japan but life tells me first I need to finish university and a few other things before I get the chance to go.

So far I really enjoy it. I'm not too familiar with the food or culture but I try to experience as much as I can. My husband is in the military, but we live off base which is great. Do you know of any foods that I should try ? (dont eat seafood tho) I have has some kind of soba dish that was good. And if anyone is familiar with okinawa city area, some great restaurant ideas and places to see.

On another note after only a few hours studying the hiragana I was able to recognize a few symbols on my washing machine!! I can't wait for the day I can read it.

That sounds really nice. I bet you feel like a little child discovering the world all over.

I'm sorry but I'm not really good at cooking and I can't help you at that but I'm sure there should be a section around here about Japanese food. Also when you find out what's written on the washing machine please let me know.